Office for Children Participates in National Dance Day

The
Office for Children recently joined others around the world in
dancing their way to good health. Nuclear physicists in Switzerland, deaf
hip hoppers in Singapore, adults in assisted living facilities, surprised
wedding guests, and thousands of other "movers and shakers"
participated in National Dance Day 2011.

Last year National Dance Day was launched by Nigel Lythgoe, executive
producer and judge of the TV show "So You Think You Can Dance."
Recognized by congress after a resolution introduced by DC Congresswoman
Eleanor Holmes Nortorn, National Dance Day is held annually to promote
dance as a fun way for people of all ages to reduce the risk of heart
disease and combat obesity while having fun.

The Office for Children helps prevent childhood obesity through its work
with the local child care community. This includes providing courses
and workshops, and administering the USDA Food Program for child care
professionals.

"The Office for Children encourages child care professionals to
offer children nutritious meals and snacks, along with providing
opportunities for both indoor and outdoor activities that allow
children to get up and move," says Office for Children Director
Anne-Marie Twohie. "By participating in National Dance Day, children
enrolled in child care programs had a fun and healthy experience."